200f2G ED-IF AF-S VR

Nikon 200f2 This is one killer lens! I’ve written about using it many times for many different subjects. The prime reason I use this prime lens is because it is f/2. The amazing narrow depth of field at f/2 is a very powerful communicative tool!

This is no small lens but it is so well balanced that hand holding really isn’t that big of a deal. It does have VR which works really well especially when shooting moving subjects (yes, you can have the VR on with the 200f2 when it’s mounted on a tripod).

Two accessories I always have along with me when shooting with the 200f2 is the Nikon CPL3 drop-in filter (it fits no other lens) and TC-17e. The polarizer still sucks up two stops of light but since you’re starting at f/2, you aren’t in a huge world of hurt when using one. Add the 1.7 and you lose another stop and a half but you are still able to work in a lot of situations. This gives the 200f2 a lot of versatility.

What are my subjects when shooting with the 200f2? Everything, everything! Birds, mammals, landscapes and people are just the start. The minimum focusing distance of the 200f2 is so close and the DOF so shallow, and the front element so seductive, it’s real easy to work the subject and they never know you’re there.

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